VA Eligibility
There are many misconceptions when it comes to whether or not you're eligible for VA health care. You may have been told you're not eligible because you make too much money. Maybe a buddy told you there was an enrollment cut-off date. If you've thought weren't eligible or have been told "no" before, see the information below. You may be more qualified than you thought.
Eligibility Myths
It's important for Veterans to not be deterred by common misconceptions. If you have specific concerns about eligibility, please reach out to us or visit the official VA website for accurate information.
Even if you've been told no before, please give consider giving us a call because legislative changes can change parameters for eligibility. Reach our team by calling
I make too much money to be eligible
Fact: While income is considered for some VA benefits, it's not the only parameter for eligibility for health care services. Eligibility for VA health care is primarily based on factors such as military service, discharge status, and other considerations. Even if you have a higher income, you may still be eligible for certain VA health care benefits.
Source: Health care eligibility
I will be taking the place of someone that needs the care more than me
Fact: The VA is designed to serve all eligible Veterans who meet the criteria for healthcare. There is no need for Veterans to feel they are taking the place of someone else. The VA is committed to providing comprehensive healthcare to all eligible Veterans, and resources are allocated to accommodate the healthcare needs of the Veteran population.
Source: Health care eligibility
I am not eligible for VA health care because I never deployed
Fact: Deployment is not a requirement for VA health care eligibility. Veterans who served in the military and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are generally eligible for VA health care. The length and location of service may affect eligibility for certain benefits, but it doesn't exclude veterans from health care services.
Source: Health care eligibility
I don't have a service-connected disability, so I am not eligible for VA health care
Fact: VA health care is not exclusively for Veterans with service-connected disabilities. While service-connected disabilities may affect the level of benefits a Veteran receives, VA health care services are available to all eligible Veterans, regardless of whether or not they have a service-connected disability.
Source: Health care eligibility
I have been out of the military for too long to be eligible for VA
The eligibility for VA health care is not solely determined by the time since separation from the military. Veterans are generally eligible for consideration if they served in the active military, naval, or air service and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
Source: Health care eligibility
Enroll in VA health care
Whether you moved and need to change your medical center or need a primary care provider in the area, we can help get you registered for VA health care. Call us or come by one of our offices.
Sheridan VA Medical Center
The eligibility office is just inside Bldg. 71 (main outpatient entrance). Ask for eligibility help at the check-in desk.
Phone:
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
VA Clinics locations: Afton, Casper, Cody, Evanston, Gillette, Riverton, Rock Springs, Worland
What to bring with your health care application
To get a faster decision on your application, bring these documents and information with you:
- Copies of your DD214 or other discharge documents
- Copies of any VA disability award letters you may have
- Your income information from the previous calendar year, if:
- You haven't filed for a VA disability yet OR
- You have a 0% VA disability rating OR
- You filed for VA disability but did not receive a service-connection rating
- Copies of your current ID cards for any other types of health coverage you may have (like Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, or private health insurance)
Need help filing a disability claim with the Veterans Benefits Administration?
Contact an accredited Veteran Service Officer. These are not VA employees, but trained and certified professionals who receive VA accreditation. Here in Wyoming, we have them available across the state. Learn more about Wyoming Veteran Service Officers.